Great Wolf Lodge:
We enjoyed a memorable Spring Break road trip in 2013, full of highs and a few lows. While camping, most of us caught a stomach flu and one person suffered a persistent chest and head cold, but even with illness we made the best of our time together and created many happy memories.
My sister and her family met us in Portland and we caravanned south in our motorhomes. Our first stop was Great Wolf Lodge, where the indoor water park was buzzing with families and children. The kids outnumbered adults by a lot, and we all had a blast racing down water slides, splashing in the wave pool, and taking part in the lodge’s interactive magic wand adventure.
Lake Quinault:
After the lodge we drove to Lake Quinault. There we climbed enormous spruce trees, skipped rocks, played Frisbee, and enjoyed classic camping games. For dinner we treated ourselves to a local seafood restaurant and savored a delicious salmon meal.
Kalaloch Campground:
Next we camped at Kalaloch. Our days there were filled with beach walks, rock collecting, Scrabble sessions, archery practice, and relaxed time together. We enjoyed more beachcombing the following morning before moving on.
Hoh Rainforest:
We spent a peaceful couple of days in the Hoh Rainforest. The campground offered tranquil river views and evenings by the campfire watching a movie. The next day we explored the mossy trails on a scenic hike, enjoying the unique forest atmosphere and the fascinating growth patterns of the trees.
Sol Duc Hot Springs:
Our journey continued to Sol Duc Hot Springs, where we relaxed in the natural pools for hours. After soaking, we enjoyed a cozy dinner and capped the evening with a Harry Potter movie—simple pleasures after a day of travel.
Sequest State Park:
We then drove toward Mount St. Helens and camped at Sequest State Park. The park’s scenery was beautiful and the kids spent time at the playground and practicing archery. Evenings were for fireside reading, shared dinners, and winding down after each busy day.
On the final morning we returned to Portland while my sister’s family headed back to Idaho. If you have the chance to visit Washington’s Olympic Peninsula and the Hoh Rainforest, take it—the landscapes are striking and unforgettable. I’ll be back to posting recipes soon.